News, observations and reader questions about the Sacramento Kings and the NBA.

December 22, 2011

Forward John Salmons (right quadriceps contusion) took part in some team drills during practice today, but Kings coach Paul Westphal said it is still "too soon to tell" if Salmons will be available for Monday's season opener against the Los Angeles Lakers.

"He wasn't quite full speed, but he did do some things out there in drills with other players on the floor, so he was doing some offense and defense, it wasn't just only shooting," Westphal said. "So that's a good sign that there's improvement with John."

Salmons was hurt in the team's open scrimmage last Thursday and missed both preseason games. Westphal said Salmons is still considered day-to-day. Travis Outlaw figures to start against the Lakers if Salmons cannot.

Salmons reiterated that he thinks he'll be ready to go.

* DeMarcus Cousins left the team's scrimmage favoring his left knee and had the knee wrapped after practice, but Westphal didn't seem overly concerned.

"I think he'll be OK," Westphal said. "He had a good practice today and banged his knee in the last couple minutes of the scrimmage is all."

* Guard Marcus Thornton returned to practice. He missed Wednesday's session after passing a kidney stone the night before.